May · Late spring
What to sow in May in Raleigh
46 crops are in their window this month in Raleigh — timed to your local frost dates.
Last frost≈ 12 Apr
First frost≈ 2 Nov
Frost-free days185 days
May averages59°–81°F
Vegetables
34 in season
Amaranth Greens
Direct sow · pinch tips often for a steady flush of tender greens
Armenian Cucumber
Direct sow · wait for warm soil; trellis for straighter fruit
Artichoke
Start indoors · seedlings need a cold snap to set buds in year one
Asparagus
Plant crowns · resist harvesting until the second or third spring
Bitter Melon
Start indoors · harvest young and green — riper fruit turns bitter
Herbs
7 in season
Basil
Start indoors · loves heat, don't rush it outside before frost
Epazote
Direct sow · cut flower heads early or it self-seeds everywhere
Fenugreek (Methi)
Direct sow · ready to cut in under a month; sow again for more
Mint
Transplant seedlings · spreads aggressively, best contained in pots
Rosemary
Transplant seedlings · germinates slowly, cuttings are far more reliable
Fruit
5 in season
Blueberries
Plant bushes · needs acidic soil and a second variety to pollinate
Ground Cherries
Transplant seedlings · let ripe fruit drop; husks turn tan and papery
Melon (Cantaloupe)
Direct sow · warm soil is key; try black plastic mulch to help
Strawberries
Plant runners · pinch off first-year flowers for stronger plants
Watermelon
Direct sow · give vines plenty of room and consistent water